Finding Belonging and Building a Career in Canada: YWCA Employment Programs for Newcomers in BC

Written by: Fulvia Carregan from YWCA Metro Vancouver

Starting a new life in Canada comes with many challenges and for immigrant women, restarting a professional career often means navigating unfamiliar systems, recertifying qualifications, and building new networks from scratch.

YWCA Metro Vancouver supports immigrant and refugee women in rebuilding their careers through specialized employment programs. These free programs are designed for British Columbia residents who are already in Canada and are tailored to meet the unique needs of women and gender-diverse individuals including those from racialized and LGBTQIA+ communities.

Many internationally trained women arrive in Canada with strong experience in IT, but face barriers re-entering the tech sector ranging from unfamiliar hiring practices to a lack of local connections.

YWCA Tech Connect is a 16-week program that supports self-identifying newcomer women with backgrounds in IT to reconnect with their field and secure fulfilling roles in Canada’s growing tech sector. The program offers industry insights, mentorship, job search strategies and networking opportunities with local employers.

Ehtesham Azad, Tech Connect Program Manager, shares some advice to integrate to the new culture: “Being Canadian is a privilege. Embrace it by volunteering and giving back to your community. It’s a powerful way to build meaningful connections, foster a true sense of belonging, and make Canada your home away from home.”

For internationally trained professionals looking to return to their fields in Canada, YWCA Career Paths for Skilled Immigrants is a key resource. This government-funded program helps newcomers leverage their skills, training and foreign credentials to secure meaningful employment in British Columbia.

The program offers personalized support such as financial assistance for professional recredentialing or licensing, job-related language training, assessment of credentials and work experience, and individualized career planning and coaching. Participants also receive help communicating with regulatory authorities, as well as referrals to mentors and employers. For those needing Canadian work experience, the program can connect participants to opportunities through placements, work-study programs or related jobs in their industry.

Even if your occupation is not regulated in BC or your qualifications are not formally recognized, Career Paths can help you explore alternative career options that still reflect your background and expertise. Open for intake year-round, Career Paths for Skilled Immigrants is a great resource for immigrant women ready to reclaim their careers and thrive in the Canadian workforce.

Feeling at home in a new country often begins with finding people who understand your journey and having access to the right support along the way. YWCA Metro Vancouver’s employment programs go beyond helping participants find jobs; they offer connection, confidence and a sense of belonging. YWCA Metro Vancouver offers over 15 free employment programs for job seekers across British Columbia, including specialized supports for women, immigrants, refugees and gender-diverse individuals.

In addition to employment services, the YWCA provides access to wraparound supports like free child care, peer support groups and access to scholarships helping women not only navigate the workforce but thrive within it.

All programs and supports are free and available to residents of British Columbia who are already living in Canada. Each program has specific eligibility requirements, so we encourage prospective participants to explore the details on our website to find the best fit.

Learn more at ywcavan.org/employment